1996 & 1997 drivetrain compatibility question
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Joined: Jul 2011
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From: Missouri
1996 & 1997 drivetrain compatibility question
Hello all I was wondering can you swap motors &trannys between a 96 laramine with a 360&a 97 1500 with a 318?both trucks are automatics.Thanks
Site Moderator
Joined: Jan 2008
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From: Sioux Falls, SD
Welcome to DF. First, before anything else, please read this.
I will move this to the 2nd gen section (1994-2001 Rams).
The transmission is basically the same, however, there will be some wiring differences, if memory serves from earlier threads on the same subject. It won't be an easy swap when you factor in the wiring.
I will move this to the 2nd gen section (1994-2001 Rams).
The transmission is basically the same, however, there will be some wiring differences, if memory serves from earlier threads on the same subject. It won't be an easy swap when you factor in the wiring.
Professional
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 234
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From: Elko Nevada
Hey welcome to the forum The 96 is going to have the 46RH and the 97 is going to have the 46RE. The Rh is a hydraulically controlled vs the RE which is electrically controlled. The Swap is very doable if you are swapping engine trans from one to the other and have all the harness from the donor vehicle. swap computers and make sure one the donor doesn't have SKIM, highly unlikely in Gen 2 rams but it came out in 96. Good luck with your swap It will be easier than swapping in a Hemi. I can promise you that.
Administrator
Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Clayton MI
Hey welcome to the forum The 96 is going to have the 46RH and the 97 is going to have the 46RE. The Rh is a hydraulically controlled vs the RE which is electrically controlled. The Swap is very doable if you are swapping engine trans from one to the other and have all the harness from the donor vehicle. swap computers and make sure one the donor doesn't have SKIM, highly unlikely in Gen 2 rams but it came out in 96. Good luck with your swap It will be easier than swapping in a Hemi. I can promise you that.
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 294
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From: Rotonda West, Florida
when I did my transmission, there were many "97 only" plugs and parts. I think this was a time in dodge manufacturing were things were changing rapidly due to the introduction of electronically controlled transmissions and OBDII as well. I held out and bought a spare drive train from a 97 for 300 bucks. can't say the 96 won't work BUT I was surprised how unique the 97's really are. one thing that comes to mind is the speed sensor and tone ring in the rear end and also the speed sensor in the transmission tailshaft.
Professional
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 234
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From: Elko Nevada
HEYYou you're right I got my wires crossed. I was thinking 96 was the last year. If they both are a 46RE should be a straight in and out swap. It shouldn't take you and a buddy more than a day. 98 they changed the dash and the mirrors and the motor got some more power.
